Rail Traffic Applications
Powered by Sensor Line's proprietary fiber optic technology (SL FORPS), Quarterhill delivers analysis systems, sensors, and electronics for a wide range of applications across the rail sector. The complex design of these high-precision sensors ensures reliable measurements that are immune to electromagnetic interference. All of these applications can be implemented with a single sensor, with additional use cases continually emerging from the measurement and evaluation of vertical impact data.
Detects flat wheel defects. Reduces rail and wheel wear
Wheels on rail vehicles are exposed to extreme stress and high loads. Defects such as flat spots increase noise pollution and vibration, driving up maintenance costs. Quarterhill's flat wheel detection solution, powered by Sensor Line's fiber optic sensors (SL FORPS) and electronics, identifies signs of wear immediately, minimizing damage to rail vehicles and tracks and reducing the risk of derailment caused by wheel damage.
Measures train weight in motion. Supports predictive infrastructure maintenance
A measuring accuracy of +/– 3% is achievable when weighing trains in motion, thanks to Sensor Line's SL FORPS technology and the intelligent algorithms of Quarterhill's qualified system integration partners. Combined with other functionalities such as speed, vibration, and flat wheel measurement, this enables accurate conclusions about actual load and impact on infrastructure and rolling stock, forming the basis for predictive maintenance and helping avoid costly, sudden material failures and downtime.
Measures axle movements accurately. Detects all passing vehicles
Knowing who uses rail infrastructure, and how, is essential to evaluating actual load and impact on both infrastructure and rolling stock. Auto-ID technologies can only detect assets that are labeled accordingly. Quarterhill's axle and wagon counting solution, powered by Sensor Line's SL FORPS technology, recognizes what's moving on the track independent of labeling. While system integrators often combine various sensor and identification methods, SL FORPS technology enables comprehensive, complete data collection on its own.
Measures track bed forces. Identifies infrastructure changes early
The stress and condition of the ballast and track bed are decisive factors in the durability, availability, and safety of track systems, and damage to the track can have serious consequences. Quarterhill's track bed analysis solution, powered by Sensor Line's fiber optic technology (SL FORPS), measures the smallest changes in indirect forces on the track, for example those caused by one-sided loads. Long-term measurement detects damage at an early stage, reducing risk and protecting infrastructure.
Monitors shocks and vibrations. Detects infrastructure changes early
Quarterhill's vibration analysis solution, powered by Sensor Line technology, is insensitive to electromagnetic interference and ideal for detecting shocks and vibrations. Fiber optic rail pad sensors (SL FORPS), installed between rail and sleeper, ensure reliable and precise measurement. The resulting vibration analysis forms a basis for predictive maintenance and helps reduce operating costs.
Measures train speed accurately. Supports safer rail operations
The faster a train moves, the greater the impact of vibration on rail infrastructure and rolling stock, especially when a train exceeds the permitted speed, which has an immediate, outsized impact on the line, tracks, track bed, and vehicle itself. Quarterhill's speed measurement solution, powered by Sensor Line technology, is one of the most reliable methods for tracking this risk. Avoiding excessive speed is essential to controlling maintenance and repair costs, and speed data can also help narrow down potential causes in the event of damage or accidents.